Fundraiser Started For Family of Man Killed in LIE Crash

An online fundraiser has been started for the family of a 31-year-old man who was killed in a chain-reaction crash on the Long Island Expressway early Saturday.

"This tragedy is absolutely devastating and we’re hoping this account can help with any unexpected/future expenses," the GoFundMe page set up for the family of Eric Preto says. "Please consider donating to Eric’s wife, son and baby on the way."

According to Suffolk Police, Eric Preto was driving a 2016 Nissan in the middle lane of the eastbound LIE near Exit 49 in Melville around 12:38 a.m. Saturday when his car struck the back of a 2018 Mercedes-Benz.

Preto, of Selden, left his vehicle, with his wife, Gabriella Preto, and their 2-year-old son inside, to check the damage on his car and to speak to the driver of the Mercedes.

As Preto was walking back to his vehicle, he was struck by a 2015 Subaru. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

As of Sunday morning, nearly $10,000 of a $25,000 goal had been raised for Preto's family. Find the GoFundMe page here.

Photo via GoFundMe